Residential prevention practices for bacteria
Residential pollution prevention methods effective for controlling or reducing phosphorus. Source: modified from the Center for Watershed Protection.
Link to this table
| Practice | Relative effectiveness | Method | Image1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Litter and Animal Waste Control | High | Properly dispose of pet waste and litter in a timely manner and according to local ordinance requirements. |  |
| Yard Waste Management | Low | Prevent yard waste from entering storm sewer systems and water bodies by either composting or using curbside pickup services and avoiding accumulation of yard waste on impervious surfaces; keep grass clippings and leaves out of the street. |  |
| Septic Tank Maintenance | High | ||
| Exposed Soil Repair | Low | Use native vegetation or grass to cover and stabilize exposed soil on lawns to prevent sediment wash off. |  |
| Native Landscaping | Low | Reduce turf areas by planting native species to reduce and filter pollutant-laden runoff and prevent the spread of invasive, non-native plant species into the storm sewer system. |  |
| Healthy Lawns | Low | Maintain thick grass planted in organic-rich soil to a height of at least 3 inches to prevent soil erosion, filter stormwater contaminants, and absorb airborne pollutants; limit or eliminate chemical use and water and repair lawn as needed |  |